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Garbage Loader Jobs in Georgia (NOW HIRING)

Route Driver

Marietta, GA · On-site

$18.80 - $21.44/hr

Ability to lift and carry garbage/trash/brush loads weighing approximately 35 to 100 pounds several times daily. * Must be able to read, write, and speak English clearly and understand verbal ...

Residential Helper

Athens, GA · On-site

$15.25 - $17.50/hr

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS: 1. Picks up solid waste and places it in the back of a rear load garbage truck on specified routes often done manually or by pushing toter to tipper. Lifts and carries trash ...

Residential Helper

Athens, GA · On-site

$13.25 - $15/hr

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS: 1. Picks up solid waste and places it in the back of a rear load garbage truck on specified routes often done manually or by pushing toter to tipper. Lifts and carries trash ...

... Cleans garbage and debris from carts and baskets. 10. Performs all other duties as assigned by ... load customer orders into cars. 7. Effective communication and customer service skills. #LI-AS1

Yard Helper

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$15.25 - $18.25/hr

Load and unload trucks, complete on-rent and off-rent inspections, as directed. * Deliver and make runs for shop. * Empty garbage cans daily. * Maintain the cleanliness of the shop; all items off ...

Dishwasher

Atlanta, GA

$12.50 - $16/hr

Steam cleans or hoses out garbage cans * Sorts bottles, and breaks disposable ones in bottle ... Loads or unloads trucks picking up or delivering supplies and food * Attends required trainings and ...

Yard Helper

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$15.25 - $18.25/hr

Load and unload trucks, complete on-rent and off-rent inspections, as directed. * Deliver and make runs for shop. * Empty garbage cans daily. * Maintain the cleanliness of the shop; all items off ...

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Garbage Loader information

See Georgia salary details

$9

$16

$23

How much do garbage loader jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for garbage loader in Georgia is $16.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $18.89 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a garbage loader do?

A garbage loader, also known as a sanitation worker or refuse collector, is responsible for collecting and loading waste materials onto garbage trucks for disposal. They typically work in teams to pick up trash, recyclables, and yard waste from residential, commercial, and public areas. Their work helps ensure communities remain clean and free of waste, and they often follow specific routes and safety procedures. Garbage loaders may also assist with sorting recyclables and handling bulky items. The job requires physical strength, attention to safety, and the ability to work in various weather conditions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Garbage Loader, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Garbage Loader, you need physical stamina, attention to safety, and the ability to follow instructions, typically requiring a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with waste collection vehicles, hydraulic lifts, and basic safety equipment is common in this role. Teamwork, reliability, and a strong work ethic are crucial soft skills for succeeding in demanding and often outdoor conditions. These skills ensure efficient waste collection, prevent injuries, and contribute to public health and cleanliness.

What are the typical physical demands and safety practices involved in working as a Garbage Loader?

Garbage Loaders routinely engage in physically demanding tasks such as lifting heavy bags, maneuvering bins, and working in various weather conditions. Safety is paramount, so workers are trained to use proper lifting techniques, wear protective gear like gloves and reflective vests, and follow specific procedures to avoid injuries from sharp objects or hazardous materials. The role often requires early morning starts and close collaboration with drivers and other crew members to ensure efficient and safe waste collection. Adhering to safety protocols and being prepared for physical challenges are key to success in this position.

What is the difference between Garbage Loader vs Waste Collector?

AspectGarbage LoaderWaste Collector
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent, valid driver’s licenseHigh school diploma or equivalent, valid driver’s license
Work EnvironmentResidential and commercial areas, operating trucksResidential neighborhoods, waste collection routes
Industry UsageMunicipal waste management, private waste servicesMunicipal waste management, private waste services

Garbage Loaders and Waste Collectors often perform similar roles in waste management, operating trucks to collect and dispose of waste. The main difference lies in terminology; 'Garbage Loader' is commonly used in specific regions or companies, while 'Waste Collector' is a broader term. Both roles require similar credentials and work environments, focusing on residential and commercial waste collection within municipal or private sectors.

Is garbage collecting a good job?

Garbage collection is a physically demanding job that involves handling waste and operating heavy equipment, often outdoors and in various weather conditions. It typically offers stable employment with benefits, but may include early hours and exposure to health hazards. Job satisfaction depends on individual preferences for manual labor and environmental conditions.
What are popular job titles related to Garbage Loader jobs in Georgia? For Garbage Loader jobs in Georgia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Garbage Loader jobs in Georgia look for? The top searched job categories for Garbage Loader jobs in Georgia are:
Infographic showing various Garbage Loader job openings in Georgia as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, 29% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,778 per year, or $16.7 per hour.
Solid Waste Equipment Operator

Solid Waste Equipment Operator

City of Atlanta

Atlanta, GA • On-site

$39K - $49K/yr

Full-time

Posted 29 days ago


City Of Atlanta (Georgia) rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 20 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

299th of 645 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Posting Expires: 3/19/26 

Salary Range: $39,370.24- $49,212.80

General Description and Classification Standards:

Performs manual work functions associated with operating environmental equipment in the Bureau of Solid Waste Services. 

Supervision Received:

*

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

These are typical responsibilities for this position and should not be construed as exclusive or all inclusive.

  • Acts as first line supervisor to Environmental Service Workers assigned to truck. 
  • Operates environmental equipment such as a conventional rear loader garbage truck and open-body dump truck to remove refuse from residential units and from special events. 
  • Drives assigned route.
  • Performs manual work functions and utilizes various tools including pitchfork, rake, shovel and broom to empty receptacles and pick up yard trimming, bulk rubbish and spillage. 
  • Performs pre- and post-route vehicle inspections and basic maintenance activities; keeps the interior and exterior of assigned equipment clean. 
  • Obtains the necessary tools to perform specific tasks so that work can be performed both efficiently and in a timely manner. 
  • Communicates with supervisors to inform them of progress made on work assignments. 
  • Reports any mechanical problems associated with vehicle. 
  • Reports problems or emergency situations. 
  • Responds to routine requests for information from officials, employees, the public or other city agencies. 
  • Uses a two-way radio to communicate with supervisor and to receive instructions. 
  • Maintains high standards of accuracy in exercising duties and responsibilities. 
  • Exercises immediate remedial action to correct any quality deficiencies that occur in areas of responsibility. 
  • Operates a conventional rear loader garbage truck; may operate an open-body dump truck, tandem dump truck, MAD VAC, and mini-truck. 
  • Provides maintenance to equipment to prevent equipment damage. 
  • Fuels and dumps vehicle daily at the end of the work shift. 
  • Cuts grass as required.
  • Receives various forms, work orders, reports, and other documents; completes, processes, and forwards as appropriate. 
  • Completes vehicle maintenance reports to document mileage, fuel, etc. 
  • Prepares/generates maintenance records, logs, or other documentation as required.
  • May perform other duties as assigned.

The above statements reflect the general duties, responsibilities and competencies considered necessary to perform the essential duties and responsibilities of the job and should not be considered as a detailed description of all the work requirements of the position. COA may change the specific job duties with or without prior notice based on the needs of the organization.

Knowledge Skills and Abilities:

This is a partial listing of necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities required to perform the job successfully, it is not an exhaustive list.

  • Ability to communicate effectively with supervisors and other staff members. 
  • Ability to use judgment in routine and non-routine situations. 
  • Ability to comprehend and apply regulations and procedures of the department. 
  • Ability to work under a minimum degree of stress related to duties that require constant attention to detail and tight deadlines. 
  • Ability to follow specific oral and written instructions. 
  • Ability to perform strenuous work and withstand exposure to varied climatic conditions. 
  • Ability to operate large trucks and drive safely as evidenced by an absence of excessive numbers of traffic violations or accidents.
  • Ability to pass a performance test on the required equipment and supervise a small crew of collectors; etc.

Minimum Qualifications:

Education and Experience -High school diploma, or equivalent; one (1) year of experience in the operation of medium-sized trucks or equipment such as garbage trucks required; or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience which provides the requisite knowledge, skills, and abilities for this job.

Licensures and Certifications - Must possess a valid Georgia Commercial Driver's License (CDL) with Class B endorsement.

Preferred Requirements - None.

Work Environment:

Required physical, lifting, and sensory capabilities are requirements to perform the job successfully. Typical environmental conditions associated with job.

Lifting Requirements: 

Heavy work:  Exerting up to 100 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 50 pounds of force frequently, and/or up to 20 pounds of force constantly to move objects.


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